The US administration under Donald Trump has declared a national emergency aimed at controlling and protecting Venezuelan oil revenues, citing concerns that funds could benefit the government of Nicolás Maduro. The move gives Washington expanded legal authority to direct how oil income linked to Venezuela is handled under US jurisdiction.
The decision forms part of a broader Trump oil strategy toward Venezuela, combining geopolitical pressure with efforts to influence global energy markets. Officials say the emergency powers are designed to safeguard Venezuelan oil revenue and prevent its misuse, while also positioning the US to shape future energy arrangements in the Western Hemisphere.
The announcement followed meetings at the White House between Trump and senior executives from major US oil companies, including ExxonMobil, Chevron and ConocoPhillips. Executives have expressed interest in Venezuela’s vast oil reserves but remain cautious about political risk, legal certainty and infrastructure challenges.
Under the national emergency declaration, US authorities may use powers under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act to restrict or redirect Venezuelan oil cash flows. Analysts say the move underscores how US politics and oil geopolitics are increasingly intertwined, with Venezuela oil news in 2026 reflecting a shift toward tighter US control over strategic energy assets and regional energy policy.
